Paramedics monitored firefighters' heart rates and blood pressure. There was plenty of hot coffee to keep them warm and water to keep them hydrated.

Firefighters said it's worth the difficulties to protect people and their homes.

"We love to do our job, but it is very cold, and it is a challenge," Johnson said.

In the fire on Bridford Place, no one was injured, but 60 percent of the house was damaged, making it uninhabitable. Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire was electrical. A relative said the family was away on a camping trip in South Carolina at the time.

"You come out and give 110 percent and do what you have to do to save people's lives and property," Bailey said.

jrfergersonJan 4, 2010

THE BRAVE, COURAGEOUS, AND GOOD MEN

native_carolinianJan 4, 2010

Raleigh's Finest Firefighters again perform with such humility to duty, thank you WRAL for noticing the hardships endured by our city residents and employees. It looks like it is more than a job for them. Well Done with Thanks !